19 North Alliance forms collaborative to protect, promote, and reimagine established neighborhood along new extension of light rail.

PHOENIX, ARIZONA – Light rail construction unearthed new opportunities for this nook of North Phoenix from Montebello to Dunlap along 19th Avenue. Capitalizing on the construction andinspired by success in revitalized areas like 16th Street & Bethany Home Road and Melrose District in recent years, 19 North is the vision for a walkable, safe and distinctive destination. Those invested in preserving and reimagining the neighborhood raised their voices and the 19 North Community Alliance formed to carry the vision. Representatives from the Councilman’s office, local neighborhood associations, faith organizations, schools and the village planning committee are determined to bring real, positive growth to this stretch of 19th Avenue.

NEW PROJECTS ALONG 19TH AVE

Exciting projects are in motion, as 19 North Alliance seeks approval for use of city-owned land as a community garden. The Alliance envisioned repurposing an unused plot of land acquired by the city during light rail construction. Their stamp of approval would lead to collaboration across local businesses, non-profits and neighbors for 19 North Collaborative Community Garden; the first of its kind in the state (proposed on 19th Ave & Las Palmaritas).

The vision also includes branding and signage for 19 North to display throughout the area bringing a cohesive, distinctive look. The designs draw inspiration from the historic Good Shepherd building on the northeast corner of 19th Avenue and Northern. The logo weaves the established roots of this area into its vibrant future.

Another exciting development will be securing the City’s Walkable Urban Code; the commitment from the City enforcing new-build projects to incorporate walkable criteria. Any new-build initiatives would require wide sidewalks, rear parking, bicycle parking, shaded walkways, store-front patios and more “to create a more vibrant transit and pedestrian environment.” (Walkable Urban Code WUC http://www.phoenix.gov/pdd/pz/walkable-urban-code)

“The light rail construction offered many community forums where businesses, community, faith,and schools met to begin building relationships. Those meetings laid a foundation for collaborating as a community. We are unifying our vision and future together – making 19 North a safe, walkable, unique destination for all to enjoy!” enthused Shannon McBride, 19 North Alliance Chairperson. The traction and collaborative efforts are unfolding to make these exciting dreams a reality.

A community meeting is planned for Fall 2016. Contact Shannon McBride, 19 North Community Alliance Chair, if you would like to help with the community garden or other revitalization projects at info@19North.org.

###

19 North is a collaborative community – where businesses, faith, the City of Phoenix, government, schools and neighborhood groups are working together to revitalize the area for all to enjoy.